Summer Food Program Adds Something New

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As of next Monday, kids won't be going to the Community Action Planning Council in Watertown just for free food - they'll also get to engage in a recreational program that is so new, it was the first day on the job for Evan Higgins, the summer activities manager.

"It doesn't have to always be a learning activity or a physical activity. It can just be something fun," said Higgins.

"It's important to not only feed them, but their socialization and their physical activity is huge," said Mary Matthewson, Family Center coordinator.

The program officially starts next Monday and runs through August 22.

But a long-standing program has been operating at the village of Carthage since before recreation director Joanne Lazore can remember - with swings, sports and the playground.

"Getting them outside, building the progam out, it just speaks for itself. Kids love to play and they love to be outside," she said.

There are as many as 70 kids a day at the Carthage program.

Watertown's program is hoping for at least a dozen or two every day.

While the food is free for any child under the age of 18, the recreational activities are for school-age kids whose parents drop them off at the program.

The new recreational program will operate from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily.